Libya introduces unified framework for business activity licensing

The Minister of Economy and Trade in the Government of National Unity has issued Decision No. (42) of 2026 approving Libya’s national guide for economic activities, in a move aimed at unifying the classification of commercial activities and streamlining licensing procedures across the country.

According to the decision, the newly approved guide will serve as the principal reference for classifying economic activities and regulating licensing, registration and approval procedures carried out by the relevant authorities.

The ministry said the measure is based on the Constitutional Declaration, the Libyan Political Agreement, the outcomes of the national dialogue process, as well as legislation governing economic activity and the state’s financial system.

Under the decision, all relevant public bodies and institutions are required to implement the approved guide, particularly in matters related to commercial registration, licensing procedures and economic approvals.

The regulation also grants businesses and activity operators a 90-day period to regularise and amend their legal and administrative status in line with the new classification framework.

The decision further authorises the Minister of Economy and Trade to amend, add or cancel economic activities included within the guide whenever deemed necessary in the public interest.

The measure takes immediate effect from the date of issuance.